Did CJ Ham Play His Final Game With the Vikings?

Sunday’s season finale for the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium was an emotional one for both fans and players, as two longtime fan favorites may have played their final game for the organization.

This wasn’t your typical border battle between the Vikings and the Green Bay Packers. Normally, this matchup comes with playoff implications, packed stands, and both teams going all out. That wasn’t quite the case this time around.

A Different Kind of Border Battle in Minnesota

Heading into the game, the Packers had already locked up a spot in the NFL Playoffs and chose to rest several starters. The Vikings, meanwhile, were already eliminated from postseason contention. Still, the game carried weight, not because of standings, but because of pride and the opportunity to honor two players who have meant a great deal to the franchise.

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Minnesota played with purpose, not just to finish the season on a high note, but to give fans one last chance to cheer for players who have helped define an era of Vikings football.

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Harrison Smith’s Possible Farewell

The team shined a spotlight on safety Harrison Smith during and after the game. Smith, who just completed his 14th season in Minnesota, is widely expected to retire. He restructured his contract to return this season, and with limited cap space projected for next year, the writing appears to be on the wall.

In a postgame interview, Smith hinted that this could be the end of his playing career. If so, he leaves behind a legacy as one of the most respected and consistent defenders in franchise history.

CJ Ham’s Minnesota Story

The Vikings also honored CJ Ham, a Duluth native and former Duluth Denfeld High School standout. Ham joined the team as an undrafted free agent in 2016 and became one of the league’s most reliable fullbacks.

Ham has been selected to two Pro Bowls and was named the Vikings’ nominee for the 2024–2025 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. With his contract expiring and the postgame atmosphere suggesting closure, it seems unlikely he will return next season.

Whatever comes next for Ham remains unclear, but one thing is certain. Whether it’s football or something beyond the field, he will have an entire state cheering him on.